Paulo Fonseca, the manager of AC Milan, has expressed his disappointment following his team’s recent performance, especially considering the expectations leading up to the match. He noted that the display on the pitch was far from what fans had witnessed during the summer friendlies. After the match, he reflected on the game, saying, “I certainly did not expect perfection at this stage, but I must say that in the first 45 minutes we were too passive and lacked intensity.”
Fonseca highlighted that the second half was an improvement, with his team regaining possession higher up the pitch and showing more aggression. He remarked, “We even had opportunities to win the match. We must continue to work hard, as there is much to improve.”
The manager also addressed his lineup choices, explaining, “Those who were not in the starting XI were not fit to begin the game. However, those who came on performed well. It is crucial to get them back in shape as soon as possible.”
Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of collective defensive efforts, stating, “The defensive phase is a team issue, not just the defenders’. In the first half, we failed to press Torino effectively.” Fonseca’s ambition is clear: he desires a more aggressive team that can regain possession quickly. He criticized the first-half performance for allowing opponents too much time and space.
On the subject of star player Rafael Leão, he added, “It’s not just a technical issue; it’s about being more active. Defensively, he worked well today, but as an attacking player, he needs to stay close to the goal and be more dynamic and engaged.” With a focus on improvement and a desire for more intensity, Fonseca is determined to elevate his team’s performance in the coming matches.